Dwayne Johnson is taking on a very different kind of role in his upcoming fantasy film, Lizard Music. The actor, widely known for his muscular appearance and action-packed performances, has undergone a striking transformation to play an eccentric elderly character called The Chicken Man.
Photographs from the film’s New York production, taken on October 20, 2026, show Johnson with gray facial hair, an aged appearance, a bucket hat and a beige trench coat. His understated outfit looks very different from the costumes and physical presence audiences usually associate with the Hollywood star. Source: Variety.
The transformation offers another example of Johnson exploring roles beyond his familiar action-hero image. It also reunites him with filmmaker Benny Safdie following their work together on The Smashing Machine.
Dwayne Johnson’s New Look for Lizard Music
Johnson’s appearance on the set of Lizard Music marks a significant visual change for the actor. Instead of his familiar clean-shaven head and muscular look, he appears as an older man with gray hair, facial hair and age-enhancing makeup.
His character, known as The Chicken Man, is an eccentric man in his seventies who becomes an important part of a young boy’s extraordinary adventure.
According to Variety’s report on the production, Johnson’s transformation involves prosthetic makeup, helping him look considerably older than he is in real life. The character’s appearance is a departure from the action-focused roles that have defined much of his career.
The change is not only about appearance. Johnson has also discussed adjusting his physique for the part, demonstrating his willingness to approach different characters with distinct physical requirements.
What Is Lizard Music About?
Lizard Music is an upcoming fantasy adventure film based on the 1976 children’s novel by Daniel Pinkwater.
The story follows a young boy who discovers a mysterious late-night television broadcast featuring lizards playing music. His curiosity leads him into an unusual world filled with unexpected discoveries.
During his journey, the boy meets The Chicken Man, played by Johnson, and the man’s remarkable chicken companion, Claudia. Their encounter develops into an adventure that explores friendship, imagination and the possibilities hidden beyond everyday life.
The film combines live-action performances with computer-generated imagery, bringing the story’s unusual characters and fantastical setting to the screen.
Its imaginative premise also makes it a departure from the large-scale action spectacles commonly associated with Johnson.
Benny Safdie Reunites With Dwayne Johnson
The project marks another collaboration between Johnson and director Benny Safdie.
The two previously worked together on The Smashing Machine, the sports drama in which Johnson portrayed former mixed martial arts fighter Mark Kerr. That performance required a substantial physical transformation as the actor moved away from his usual blockbuster persona.
With Lizard Music, Safdie is taking Johnson in a different creative direction. Rather than playing a professional fighter, Johnson portrays an unusual older character in a story built around fantasy and childhood imagination.
Johnson has expressed enthusiasm for taking on transformative roles. During a career discussion at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, he spoke about wanting to pursue projects that would allow him to explore different sides of his acting abilities.
Their continued partnership suggests that the actor is interested in expanding the range of characters he plays.
Who Stars Alongside Dwayne Johnson in Lizard Music?
Young actor Theo Clark Leber plays the boy at the center of the story, opposite Johnson’s Chicken Man.
The film also features several established Hollywood performers, including Rachel McAdams, Colman Domingo, Regina Hall, Jeff Goldblum and Alicia Silverstone. Other reported cast members include Tim Heidecker and David Krumholtz.
The project brings together experienced actors and a younger lead for a story that blends everyday experiences with fantastical elements.
Although the film’s central characters and premise have been reported, further character details remain limited. More information about the supporting roles may emerge as the production progresses.
When Will Lizard Music Be Released?
Lizard Music is scheduled to arrive in theaters on December 25, 2027, according to Variety’s reporting.
The film is associated with Amazon MGM Studios and United Artists and is being directed by Safdie.
With its unusual premise, ensemble cast and Johnson’s dramatic transformation, the movie offers a different direction for the actor’s screen career.
However, audiences will have to wait for the finished film to see how his portrayal of The Chicken Man fits into the story and how the novel’s imaginative world is adapted for the screen.
Why Dwayne Johnson’s Role Is a Career Change
Johnson has built a global following through major franchises and action films, including Fast & Furious, Jumanji and Black Adam. He has also played Maui in Disney’s live-action Moana.
His role in Lizard Music represents a different challenge. Instead of relying on the physical presence that has become a trademark of his action performances, he must portray an older, eccentric character whose appearance and personality fit the film’s unusual world.
His previous collaboration with Safdie showed his willingness to undergo a major physical change for a role. Now, Lizard Music gives him another opportunity to explore a character outside his familiar screen image.
Whether this performance opens the door to more unconventional roles remains to be seen. For now, the transformation has given audiences an early glimpse of a different side of the actor.